Explore Père Lachaise Cemetery

Claim to Fame

Père Lachaise Cemetery is the most famous cemetery in Paris — a serene, tree-lined necropolis that is the final resting place of cultural legends like Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Édith Piaf.

📌 Navigating Père Lachaise Cemetery : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Washrooms are available near the entrance of the cemetery for visitor convenience.
Hours of Operation: The cemetery is open every day, typically from 8 AM to 6 PM, but hours may vary by season.
Important Information: It is advisable to respect the site's rules, maintain silence, and be mindful of ongoing funerals and ceremonies.
Admission Fee: Admission to Père Lachaise Cemetery is free of charge.
How Long to Visit: Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the cemetery, though art and history enthusiasts may linger longer.
Parking: Limited street parking is available near the cemetery, but public transport is recommended due to narrow roads.
Family Friendly: The cemetery is family-friendly, offering a unique historical and cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
Photography: Photography is permitted, but visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the gravesites and the atmosphere.
WIFI: Free public Wi-Fi is not available in the cemetery, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Picnic Area: Picnicking is not permitted within the cemetery grounds to maintain the site's decorum.
Handicap Accessible: Père Lachaise Cemetery is partially handicap accessible, with some paths and graves being more accessible than others.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in Père Lachaise Cemetery to maintain the solemnity and respect of the site.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and can enhance the experience by providing historical context and stories about notable figures.
Restaurant or Cafe: There is no restaurant or cafe on-site, but nearby cafes and eateries are accessible within a short walk.
Gift Shop: There is a small gift shop near the entrance selling souvenirs, books, and local items related to the cemetery.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Père Lachaise Cemetery

Nestled in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, Père Lachaise Cemetery is a captivating blend of history, art, and quiet reflection. With over 70,000 tombs across 110 acres, the cemetery draws millions of visitors each year, not just to pay respects, but to wander its winding paths and admire the ornate mausoleums, sculptures, and headstones that tell stories of centuries past.

What to Expect

A visit to Père Lachaise is part historical journey, part contemplative walk. The grounds are a peaceful maze of cobbled lanes and towering trees, dotted with Gothic, Haussmann-style, and Art Nouveau tombs. You’ll find graves of renowned figures such as Frédéric Chopin, Marcel Proust, Georges Bizet, and Honoré de Balzac, each site attracting devoted fans who leave flowers, letters, and tokens of admiration.

Maps are available at the entrance or via mobile apps to help you locate specific graves. Highlights include Oscar Wilde’s glass-protected tomb, Jim Morrison’s graffiti-covered grave, and the Mur des Fédérés, a historic wall commemorating the victims of the 1871 Paris Commune.

Background and Cultural Context

Established in 1804 by Napoleon Bonaparte, Père Lachaise was originally a suburban cemetery meant to ease overcrowding in the city. To encourage burials, the remains of Molière and La Fontaine were relocated here, lending prestige and attracting future notable burials. Over time, it evolved into one of the world’s most visited cemeteries, celebrated for its tranquil beauty and the fascinating lives of those interred.

The cemetery reflects Paris’s complex history — from the French Revolution and Napoleonic era to the artistic bohemia of the 20th century. It serves as both a cultural landmark and a sacred space for remembrance.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting, with colorful foliage enhancing the atmosphere. Early mornings offer a peaceful experience with fewer crowds. The cemetery is open daily, but hours vary by season, so checking ahead is advised.

How to Get There

Père Lachaise is easily accessible via:

Metro: Line 2 or 3 to Père Lachaise station (closest to main entrance)
Bus: Several bus lines stop nearby, including lines 61 and 69
On foot: From nearby neighborhoods like Belleville or Ménilmontant

Photo Opportunities

Oscar Wilde’s tomb covered in lipstick kisses and glass protection
Intricately sculpted mausoleums and statues
Autumn leaves blanketing cobbled pathways
Jim Morrison’s graffiti-covered grave site
Sunlight filtering through tall chestnut trees

Travel Tips

Wear comfortable shoes — the cemetery is large and hilly in places.
Download a digital map or take a printed one at the entrance to find key graves.
Guided tours are available and offer rich historical context.
Be respectful — it’s still an active cemetery with ongoing burials.

FAQs

Is there an entrance fee?
No — entry to Père Lachaise Cemetery is free.

Are guided tours available?
Yes — you can book guided walking tours or download audio guides for a self-paced visit.

Is photography allowed?
Yes — photography for personal use is permitted, though tripods are discouraged.

Final Thoughts

Père Lachaise is far more than a burial ground — it’s a poetic and spiritual journey through Parisian history and the lives of artistic legends. Whether you come to reflect, explore, or photograph, this tranquil landmark offers an unforgettable experience amid the quiet grandeur of the city’s past.

Things To Do near Père Lachaise Cemetery

Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Notre-Dame Cathedral is 5.3 Kilometer(s) / 3.3 Mile(s)

Latin Quarter

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Latin Quarter is 5.8 Kilometer(s) / 3.6 Mile(s)

Louvre Museum

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Louvre Museum is 6.6 Kilometer(s) / 4.1 Mile(s)

Luxembourg Gardens

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Luxembourg Gardens is 7.1 Kilometer(s) / 4.4 Mile(s)

Montmartre

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Montmartre is 7.4 Kilometer(s) / 4.6 Mile(s)

Moulin Rouge

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Moulin Rouge is 8.2 Kilometer(s) / 5.1 Mile(s)

Champs-Élysées

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Champs-Élysées is 10.1 Kilometer(s) / 6.3 Mile(s)

Eiffel Tower

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Eiffel Tower is 11.6 Kilometer(s) / 7.2 Mile(s)

Seine River Cruise

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Seine River Cruise is 12.4 Kilometer(s) / 7.7 Mile(s)

Musée d'Orsay

The Distance from Père Lachaise Cemetery to Musée d'Orsay is 18.5 Kilometer(s) / 11.5 Mile(s)

📘 Paris Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Paris operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC +2.

Weather: Paris has an oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Summer temperatures typically range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures average 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). Rain is spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Population: Paris has a population of approximately 2.1 million people in the city proper and over 12 million in the metropolitan area, making it the most populous urban center in France and one of the largest in Europe.

Size: Paris covers an area of around 105 square kilometers (40.7 square miles). Located along the Seine River in northern France, it is renowned for its historic architecture, world-class museums, and cultural landmarks.

Language: French is the official language spoken in Paris. English is commonly understood in hotels, major tourist attractions, and restaurants, though a few basic French phrases are appreciated by locals.

Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops and cafés.

Safety: Paris is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing are common in crowded spots like the metro, Eiffel Tower, and major train stations. Visitors should stay alert and protect valuables.

Tipping: Tipping in Paris is appreciated but not required. Most restaurants include a service charge in the bill. Leaving small change or rounding up is customary for good service.

Electricity and Plugs: France uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types C and E are standard. Travelers from countries using different voltage or plug types should bring appropriate adapters.

Water: Tap water in Paris is safe to drink and meets EU quality standards. Public fountains and restaurant water are safe unless otherwise indicated.

Annual Visitors: Paris welcomes over 30 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited cities in the world. Key attractions include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of the EU, U.S., Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for short stays in France. A valid passport is required for entry.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to France. Routine immunizations such as measles, flu, and tetanus are recommended. Healthcare in Paris is high-quality and widely available.

Transportation: Paris has a dense and efficient public transportation network, including metro lines, buses, RER trains, and trams. Walking is also a convenient way to explore central neighborhoods.

Food: Paris is a culinary capital known for pastries, cheeses, wine, and gourmet dining. Signature dishes include croissants, escargot, coq au vin, and steak frites. Cafés and boulangeries are cultural staples.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Parisians value politeness and formality. A simple “bonjour” when entering shops or restaurants is expected. Quiet behavior in public spaces and respectful dress at religious sites are appreciated.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, museums, and public spaces. Mobile coverage is excellent. SIM cards with prepaid data are available at convenience stores and kiosks.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended when visiting Paris. While France has excellent healthcare, non-EU visitors may be charged for treatment. Insurance also helps cover theft, delays, or lost baggage.

Did You Know? - Facts About Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris is the final resting place of many famous figures, including Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Marcel Proust.

The cemetery has sections dedicated to victims of the Holocaust, as well as memorials for fallen soldiers and notable events in French history.

Père Lachaise is one of the most visited cemeteries in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually.

The cemetery is known for its beautiful tree-lined paths, elaborate tombs, and monuments, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Opened in 1804, it is the largest cemetery in Paris, covering 110 acres and containing over 70,000 burial plots.